Episode Summary
Falls aren’t just for the frail. In this episode of The Aging Well Firefighter, Roy Smalley shares his own humbling story of an unexpected fall and why it changed the way he thinks about balance, pride, and prevention. He’s joined by Dr. Michael Grahl, an emergency physician and EMS medical director at SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital, who sees firsthand how falls affect people of all ages. Together, they explore why younger and middle‑aged adults fall, the hidden factors that often surprise people, and the lessons we can all take away to keep ourselves and our families safer.
This episode is the first in a five‑week series of articles and podcasts for Fall Prevention Month. You can read the companion article, Too Strong to Fall? Think Again, on The Aging Well Firefighter blog [link].
Key Topics Covered
Why falls aren’t just an “older adult problem” — they happen to firefighters, athletes, parents, and professionals.
Common causes of falls in younger and middle‑aged adults: alcohol, distraction, “weekend warrior” overexertion, and hidden medical issues.
The role of pride and embarrassment in how people respond to falls.
How ER physicians uncover the real causes behind a fall (and why the story doesn’t always match the injuries).
Practical advice for reducing fall risk at any age: hydration, nutrition, knowing your limits, and respecting your body’s cues.
Why starting fall awareness early matters — and how it can change outcomes later in life.
Memorable Quotes / Highlights
Roy Smalley:
“The only thing I really hurt was my pride, but it was a wake‑up call.”Dr. Michael Grahl:
“There's pride there. Definitely pride.”Dr. Michael Grahl:
“I’ve said it before, but I think it’s important to say again: know your limitations. It doesn’t matter how young or old you are, we are not invincible.”Dr. Michael Grahl:
“You had one or two or 12 too many beers and then made a bad decision, and now your life is never going to be the same from it.”Roy Smalley:
“Falls aren’t just for the frail. They happen to people like us.”
Mentioned in the Show
Madison Emergency Physicians [link]
Fond du Lac County Falls Coalition [link]
SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital [link]
Call to Action
If this conversation made you rethink falls, share this episode with someone you care about. You might just prevent the fall they never saw coming. And don’t forget to read the companion article, Too Strong to Fall? Think Again, on The Aging Well Firefighter blog for more stories, science, and practical tips.
Connect with Roy
Instagram: @roysmalley.us
Facebook: @roysmalley.us
LinkedIn: roysmalley
All my links in one place: www.roysmalley.us
